The Medical Officer of Health for Windsor Essex wants people who are hesitant to get a vaccine to know they work.
To date, around 37 per cent of the total population in Windsor-Essex has received a vaccine. For those over 60, the rate is closer to 80 per cent.
“We are already seeing the impact of that high immunization rate. Cases in these age groups are declining. Our facilities are no longer seeing outbreaks. This is very significant for all of us, and clearly shows the effectiveness of the vaccine and the benefit of getting the vaccine early,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.
Dr. Ahmed said the early vaccination rate in Windsor-Essex has prevented a number of infections overall.
“Part of our success in not experiencing the same third wave that other areas are experiencing is due to our vaccination coverage. So, we are definitely very pleased with that, and we want to make sure that we continue on that pathway and continue to protect our residents,” said Dr. Ahmed.
This week, around 22,000 vaccine doses are expected to be administered. By the end of May, all adults age 18 and over will be eligible to book a vaccine. Dr. Ahmed estimates everyone who wants a vaccine will receive their first dose by the beginning of July.
On Wednesday, the health unit reported another 40 cases of COVID-19 in the region. Among the new cases, 18 are close contacts of previously confirmed infections, and 20 are community-acquired. The health unit continues to investigate two cases.
There are 384 active cases in the community right now. Of those, 153 involve a variant of concern.